ARTS minister Estelle Morris last night warned Liverpool that no Government cash was available to help make its Capital of Culture year a success.

ARTS minister Estelle Morris last night warned Liverpool that no Government cash was available to help make its Capital of Culture year a success.

In a hard-hitting Commons speech, Ms Morris told MPs there was a temptation to "tag everything with the Capital of Culture badge" in the run-up to 2008.

But, at the time of the contest, the Government had made clear there was no "pot of money" - and had no intention of changing its position now.

The outright refusal to help Liverpool comes as the Government prepares to hand #30m to London's bid to host the 2012 Olympics. And, two years ago, ministers found #25m to bail out Manchester when planning for the Commonwealth Games was facing financial meltdown.

A rescue package pumped in #80m, of which Manchester City Council paid #25m, the Government #25m and Sport England #20m.

In addition, the Government has promised small amounts to the 11 losing cities in the Capital of Culture contest, although it has not said how much.

During a debate on preparations for 2008, Ms Morris agreed it was important that Liverpool's infrastructure - in particular its much-criticised transport links - were improved.

But she said: "Liverpool cannot be totally rebuilt just because it is the Capital of Culture. There is a natural inclination to tag everything with the Capital of Culture badge.

"The hard part of my speech is to warn that the Capital of Culture badge doesn't mean that the Government is going to give financial resources. That can't happen, it would not be right. It was made clear that there was no pot of money.

"Everybody bidding knew that was the position, that no extra money would be forthcoming."

The hard-line stance was revealed after Louise Ellman, Labour MP for Riverside, led a Commons debate.

Mrs Ellman argued that direct flights to London and refurbishment of Lime Street station were essential to bring visitors for the Capital of Culture year. She added: "The London Olympic bid is being backed with #30m and national funding also assisted the Commonwealth Games, which was a tremendous success."

"Liverpool remains one of the most deprived cities in the UK. It has achi eved much through its own resourcefulness.